Raven entered the room and closed the door behind her, unaware of her roommate's presence. When she turned and looked up, she was surprised to see December, lying on her stomach on the bed, looking ahead of her as though she was…copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1l1WMj8jvs
Well, she was in a daze. That was all Raven could think of.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡzktzhZe56A
Biting her lip to stop herself from chuckling, she quietly walked over to her friend and waved a hand in front of her. Not even a blink.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡuIDSUPdYnQ
Raven was amazed at the extent of December being unaware of her surroundings. She knew what brought this on, however, and though it's been a couple of days since December got asked out by their archery captain, their expectations that she would come down to planet earth instead of staying on the moon seemed to be underestimated.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡGocIkZ2six
Just then, an idea occurred to her.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡVSSor9nFfu
Walking away from December, she stood in front of her study table and took out her hair pins out of her hair, all the while grinning to herself. Spotting December's phone, she picked it up and cradled it against her ear, saying loudly, "Hi Zach. December? Oh, she's in the bathroom right now but I can take a message for – "copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡfJdSC7IQ55
The phone suddenly disappeared from her grip as December snatched it away from Raven. December was wide-eyed and flushed as she put the device against her ear before a bewildered look flashed across her face. She stared at phone before looking at Raven with an irritated look.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡHMuUuOTwhb
"Raven."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4c3XBu6Z9m
At her friend's irate and crestfallen expression, Raven couldn't contain her laughter. She clutched her stomach, her body wracked in laughter until she let out a few last titters of chuckle.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡuo6HhIO0zU
December then took her phone and sat on her bed, almost sullen.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6gGAabp4IG
"Oh, come on, D. It was a joke." Raven wiped a tear at the corner of her eye. "You should have seen yourself by the way. Has he been texting you?" She sobered a little and asked.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡfNTjKvNRvX
December's shoulders were slumped as she answered, "Nope."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡdZmjGE2vEC
Raven gave her an apologetic look before smiling. "Hey, don't worry about it. You know how busy he could get with all those tournament and club stuffs. And he's also part of the Student Council. I'm sure he'll get to you soon."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡpKT6l3iL80
December paused in thought at that, before understanding dawned on her as she sat up straight. "You're right. I mean, I knew he could be busy…I just can't help how I feel." She smiled sheepishly at Raven.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡrnNlGyRupm
"Well, I think I can understand that." Raven chuckled.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡrDmNW3rZy6
Just as December laid down on her bed again, hugging her pillow and Raven heading towards the bathroom, a sound rang out in the room.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡBYRu5cynXG
Knowing the ringtone, December mindlessly reached around her bed for the phone, and when she glanced at it, her eyes became wide before she blinked. Then, with eyes still fixed on the screen, she let out a shriek.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡop3bLKKDe9
"Raven!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡZGMmtJpVIY
Raven opened the bathroom door and peeked around, looking at December in sudden surprise. "What? What happened?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1kXTO26mp4
December couldn't speak. She was happy yet anxious because of the surprise. Her mouth opened and closed a few times before she just raised her phone mid-air and croaked, "It-it's him."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Ot60fRKS6
Raven gasped, her eyes wide in excitement. Her roommate didn't need any more affirmation as she got out of the bathroom in only a towel. "Well, answer him, D!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡTSMGegqEb8
She nodded and fumbled with her phone, before swiping on the screen. "H-hello?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdsz6hBdE1
There was a crackle before the caller on the line spoke. "Hey, December."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡhHPLNP0FAT
His voice sounded pleasant and warmth spread through December's body.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡLuLya0OAE0
"Zach." The smile on her face bloomed and it only grew when Raven grinned at her. Despite her elation, her heart thumped erratically. She wondered why he called. Reminding herself to sound as she hadn't been on the verge of hyperventilating, she said, "So, what's up?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡJgdcPkurx8
She resist the urge to cringe at that. Raven's expression didn't help either.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡtPPjAD9AiJ
"So, I was wondering if you're free tonight." Zach said. There was a creaking sound which sounded as though he was sitting on a swiveling chair.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡt4dfCofqZT
December's heart skipped a beat at that. She had been wondering when or how things are going to be – listening to her friends talking about their dates and all was fun, but experiencing this herself when she barely know how to differentiate if someone's interested with her and or was just being nice was another. She believed that Zach must have had some interest in her to ask her out, but even that didn't reassure the doubts that would somehow prodded her mind when her guard was down.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡqJ9EWZZqrx
Nevertheless, she wasn't going to let it ruin her euphoric feeling and possibility of getting a boyfriend. With a beam and vigorous nod, she said, "Yes, I am." Then, biting her lower lip to stop the smile from getting wider, she continued, "Why do you ask?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡyUmneW0nxj
Zachary chuckled into the phone. "Well, I wanted to ask you out tonight. How does dinner and a movie sound to you?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ60nkgZIvqI
December was beyond giddy now; her nerves were dancing and her heart wouldn't go back to its normal beat. She tried to tell herself that it's just a date and she shouldn't get all hype up about it – but that didn't work at all.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡoQryvnyuNZ
She shook her head to herself at her silliness. So what now if she can't control her feelings for him? She deserve to have this moment of treasuring what she feel, and not care if she looked ridiculous with it.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2mUoJ8lKvS
"I think…that sounds really good." She couldn't help the giggle that escaped her lips.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4CSrW8rEER
"Great. I'll see you tonight at 7."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2IOBeb9IZ
"Okay, see you."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Ll395buPG
Once they hung up, December took a deep breath before exhaling it, meeting Raven's bright gaze – both of them quiet as they processed what just took place.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡmUifleoNT2
It was only seconds before they both squealed and shrieked, the shrill noise rang loudly in their room. They must have caused other dorm inhabitants to wonder what was up, but December didn't care.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡFg5n4HBgQk
She laughed girlishly as they stood and Raven was hugging her tightly, both jumping for a little while in that position.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡfZ5B2fGdJw
"Oh my God, December!" Raven shrieked in happiness.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡU6qcmMrKzl
"I know, I can't believe this!" December replied equally.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡNeCSCHAdXq
After a while, December paced the room, with a towel-clad Raven sitting on the bed, excitement for her friend shone in her eyes.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡydqEOtTuHD
"Wow, D. I'm impressed that you went through that without needing help from me." Raven started, her eyes twinkling in a playful glint.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0BJqO5cfQM
December rolled her eyes, the beam still in her face as she glanced at her roommate. "Oh, I'm not that hopeless, Raven."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡBD0dwCU6QS
Then, she cocked her hands on her hips. "But I am pretty hopeless in what comes next. Will you help me choose what to wear?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡxp6Y3UrWp8
A delightful look passed Raven's features. "Oh, I thought you'd never ask."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡApJjQyp3Of
She had always spent her Friday nights sleeping in and entertaining herself with her hobbies or hanging out with her close friends, and at one point December thought the pattern would stay the same. After all, she was way beyond hoping or even thinking that she could find someone in the academy who would have an interest in her let alone date her.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡQpSQDptywk
But the pattern would change tonight – because she was going out on a date – something that had never happened in her nonexistent dating life.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡq3Kw1NrsKQ
It thrilled her yet she was terribly anxious – because how does one go about this? And would it go well?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡBkglE7T3bH
"Is there a guide on how to go on dates for dummies? Because if there is, then I need it ASAP." December bit her lip in uncertainty, and winced as Raven pulled on her hair as she braid it. Her roommate murmured an apology before tilting her head and then shook it.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡj16cSKBmi7
Raven had called Brooke over to help her with getting ready. Even though Serena couldn't lend a help due to a family dinner with hers and Weston's family, she did cheered December and wished her luck.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJbrgdfHGZ
She really was glad to have them as her friends.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡyhkOCZWv37
December watched as Raven blow-dried her hair and untangle the braid.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡdm8kz04amm
She also knew that Raven was more likely not to answer her question when she's focused on something so she glanced at Brooke who was busy picking out her outfit.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡi36uvmHK4n
"Brooke?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡKCF4qh3nN6
"Hang on. I'm trying to find the…yes!" She let out a triumph 'a-ha!' before showing them the outfit. Glancing towards the outfit from the mirror, both December and Raven's expression turned aghast.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0tDk2Dpd0
"No way." December said with a determined look. At Brooke's pout, she emphasized it. "No."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡMw4S1zeIki
The outfit was something that December was certain she would never wear, more so on a date. It was a black dress that was so short, she knew it had to end a little higher above the knee. If that wasn't enough, the cleavage area was so low, she knew they would spill at how narrow and small the cups were, regardless whether she was a big or a small chested person.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ64VL8m3cJQ
Brooke huffed and muttered to herself, although it was loud enough that they could hear it. 'After all the trouble I went to get this from my boxes…"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdRNQcPuB3
December gasped. "I knew that's not mine! I don't remember ever getting such a...such a scandalous outfit!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡvnAAfBauju
"Oh, don't be such a prude." Brooke rolled her eyes. "I just thought we're going in for the kill to make him go haga haga over you – "copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡNqyJbH5eTO
"Haga haga?" Raven choked over her laughter, while December just looked at Brooke, looking horrified.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5d2W0T8QnJ
"– and I was trying to accentuate your blessed curves." Brooke grinned. "Besides, sugar, sorry to say this but you have nothing that'll match well for a date."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡUT7utn5DSp
December grumbled. "Thanks for the reminder."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7FPGo1nufh
Raven was still busying herself over December's hairdo, said although a little distractedly. "Hm, why can't she – "copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡikulhveqlC
Brooke, knowing what Raven was about to say, gave her a look. "Raven, I'm not letting her wear a hoodie and jeans to go on a date with Zach."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡafvhJYEPCw
December frowned at Brooke.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡeKc4qB5N5l
Raven struggle to keep a straight face. "Okay, mum." She rolled her eyes with a grin as she worked on December's hair. She frowned a little when she spotted something. "D, your roots are showing. Do you plan on dyeing it again or letting it grow?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4oGzKX4Ynq
Meeting Raven's gaze through the mirror, she made an 'oh' sound before saying, "I didn't notice that. I think I'll dye it later." Then, she sighed out loud. "Also, I'm sorry for being a complete dunce about not knowing a single thing about dates and dresses but can we please not choose something that is too revealing? I just don't feel comfortable with it."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxF6Pp5tfH
Raven and Brooke then stared at her for a moment before looking at each other, nodding.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0tsdySPDGV
"Okay, don't worry about it. We'll figure it out." Raven said with a soft smile.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡYLkEl4Cp2Z
It wasn't until an hour later that they managed to pair up a pretty outfit as well as applying some makeup for December. Ten minutes of pep talk and three minutes later, December was set to meet up with Zach by the entrance of her dorm, where her two close friends peeked through her windows and beamed down at the scene before them like proud parents.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡPDxvJmVPQa
The party had been going on for two hours and Pierre was starting to feel the usual boredom striking him. The upbeat music was playing to the energetic, gyrating and hormonal teenagers and despite the spacious house, Pierre felt trapped and aggravated.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡwREZ4cSUPz
He really shouldn't have come, after all.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡPOl9tGe56h
He saw Blake, Caleb and Jethro talking amongst themselves with some girls and other guys from the football and archery team, all wearing grins as they laughed and enjoyed themselves.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4WVCrEYmuO
Standing half-hidden from everyone else at a corner, he held his drink in a red paper cup – a carbonated or alcoholic beverage, he wasn't even sure – and kept an eye for the voluptuous blonde whom he knew was searching for him, if her wandering gaze sweeping across the room was any indication.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡx0Fb0KoSEd
He thought at that moment that he had to be weird not to enjoy the things teenagers did at a party but it didn't bother him much to feel like he had to change that.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡru2MEvsSAz
He tried to enjoy himself or even amuse himself with the theatrics of the drunkards but even that hadn't last long. Pierre just wasn't in the mood and with each passing minutes, he found himself annoyed with everything.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡaFv5hWKfje
He knew why, of course but he wanted to ignore it, tried to ignore it, but his thoughts kept going anyway.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4QfJ2fuq79
A week ago, when he met December at the garden, he received a call from Katya, asking him to meet her. Unaffected, he told her he had other things to do, and while she hadn't called him after that, it seemed like she was determined to bother him again this week.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡEyDHlhcOaM
He hadn't known how to deal with the people from his past; sure, they had been the best of friends before but those were the times before everything crashed and burned around him.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡnksSpJP9Z8
He was different, and he was sure they were too.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3ZDN2ShsZ
So, why did he felt frustrated and agitated by them, even though it was only to have dinner – for old times' sake?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡq7y4OUm1Iw
Someone giggled beside him, and thinking that Karen had found him, he looked up in surprise just to find a girl leaning against him with a dopey expression.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡO5RgXgZNqZ
"Hey, handsome. Wanna have fun tonight?" She giggled, the slur evident in her voice. She was pissed-faced drunk.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡVO2VrPXk7q
Pierre tightened his jaw and gently shrugged his arm off her grip. Scanning around and not seeing Karen, he took a step towards where his friends are, only to be stopped by the only person he was trying to avoid.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡjyySDmMZnu
"Pierre!" Karen purred, her eyes bright at the sight of him but Pierre could tell she's buzzed too. "I've been looking everywhere for you."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡvbAnsyEsl4
Damn it.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡrhTtcljaFr
Karen giggled and clung to his arm tightly, pulling him towards her equally buzzed friends. "Come on, let's go meet my friends."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡBZZ9RDvECT
Glancing around to look for his friends for help, he found them looking at him and grinning, waving their cups at him in salutation.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ885Jvxh9ZD
Pierre felt a buzz in his pocket, and as he fished out and read the text, he froze.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡeqU7U6teh8
It's about your mother.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡFS7F1ZixDU
That was it; four words but it affected him deeply. His expression turned cold, and his gaze hardened the more he scanned the words.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡrM2wwy4NH4
At the same time, Caleb had noticed his expression and broke off from the group, heading his way.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡqVvk3prwDJ
Karen, who in her inebriated state had realized that Pierre had stopped moving, turned around and pouted. "What's the matter?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡFiBNYDMgaq
Pierre ignored her, as well as Caleb's amused grin at Karen.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡbBde8JMcxt
When his friend was within his reach, he put a hand on Caleb's shoulder and said, "I have to go."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡgYpMjtbL0P
Bemused and curious, Caleb asked, "What's going on? Do you need a ride?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡuF86t6JgmT
He shook his head. "It's…just something I've got to do. I'll see you lads later."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡHxvULDEyQc
Pierre turned and left, his legs directing him to his next destination, as his thoughts focused on the content of the text, that unfortunately succeeded in making him relented to face his past.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ27arTuV4fV
The night air was cool with a touch of the breezy wind, and December basked in its soothing sensation. December and Zach just had dinner and though she thought it was going to be awkward, thankfully he made her feel comfortable as they conversed and ate. She found out some things about him, such as the fact that he was a vegetarian, which was the opposite from her, and that he had entered a skating competition when he was in junior high. December found that interesting and she stored that knowledge away in her mind.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡTJB1P57zlu
They were now heading towards the theatre in town, the flashing lights of the cinema attracting people from afar, as they walked about and passed it. They walked side by side, both occupied by their thoughts, even though their silence were being penetrated by the loud sounds and carefree voices as they neared the populated streets in town. December was all too aware of the proximity of him beside her, even though she tried not to focus on it too much. Who knows what else she might come up with to embarrass herself?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡs22XXOBBmr
Nevertheless, his mild spicy cologne and heat from his body penetrating her senses wasn't helping her much.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡOoyYQrsMwI
Trying desperately to think of something else, a thought occurred to her and she blurted out, "Why are we going on a date?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡHpsjriozRJ
At his startled and bemused look, she hastily amended, "No, I mean why…me?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4jM6hJVSli
When his gaze met hers again, she quickly looked away, mentally chastising herself.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡj9GS8xjBjP
Was it the wrong thing to ask? Did she made him uncomfortable? Why was she being nervous like this? Things had gone well so far and she had to ruin the pleasant night walk, or so she thought.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡj1fMlH4JgV
His warm chuckle brought her out of her reverie and she looked up, surprise and relief to find that she didn't make him uncomfortable.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡtlffsxZnqk
They stopped and Zach looked her in the eyes.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡFJumBCTVdd
"I've always thought that you're charming, smart, funny, and you're cute as hell too and well…I told myself it's about time I ask you out. Before we go our separate ways." If that wasn't enough, he added quickly, as if he needed her to hear everything he's got to say. "I could list on more, and that's just the tip of the iceberg." His voice took on a shy tone, and coupled with his dimpled smile and shining look in his eyes, December thought she was a goner.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡLxe0jzHojY
Oh my God…copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡkNkA3M729x
Okay, calm down my beating heart!copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPhRbTu5OI
Hearing 'cute' and 'hell' from him just doesn't feel right, but it sounded like music to my ears. Did he really think I'm charming? And cute? Cue internal squealing.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡizfxAz7iXq
December's face was flushed and she had a shy smile on her face. Her heart was beating louder and she was smiling too much that her cheeks hurt, but she giggled and said, "Oh wow, ah, thanks. I didn't know you're a smooth talker, Zach."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡhheBRhnZkx
She was trying to steer the topic away from her, lest she couldn't control her flushing cheeks anymore.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡwHnNzyH3Ev
Zachary only smiled at her, and as they continued to walk towards the theatre, he glanced before saying, "I mean them, December."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡLX51uGABZy
Yeah, I'm definitely a goner.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2gPgSHygGS
December made it to her dorm just before the matron could reprimand her, feeling like she was walking on clouds. If the dorm matron did give her an earful, she doubted that would dampen her good mood.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡOdzb09KIdo
After the movie, he had them driven to get some ice cream gelato at a parlour and they had talked the night through. She enjoyed spending the time with him so much that when she knew they had neared their curfew, it felt like their magical moment together was coming to an end really fast and she didn't know what else she could do to prolong them. The feeling was too disappointing and she almost wanted to just tell him to break some curfew to stay out late.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡeZmj0Q0BsZ
But December could never do that. Besides the fact that she knew Zach held punctuality like it was a part of his soul, he just doesn't seem like the sort of person to break them. And she knew what the consequences would be to his record if they were caught – and they most probably would – it would definitely affect his presidency at the Student Council.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9vgZL9Hkpn
She sighed.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡcdAMpBV9j8
She hadn't dared to do that at all.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡyx8UR9LSKe
December played back the moment from when he first came to pick her up, the pleasant dinner, the walk to the theatre, and their late night conversations – he looked so different and carefree.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡSUJ9UviBPH
She would not forget this moment; her first date with the guy she had a crush on; his smile, his dimples, the little laughs he would elicit when he found something amusing, the warm and tingle sensation he made her feel, those little touch and gestures he did when their skin met with contact – and though she'd heard this in the movies all the time, she finally knew it to be true because if this was a dream, then she didn't want to wake up from it at all.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ1VANlcJuv
But of course, she had to eventually.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡS330YV9KNU
Before she could reach her doorknob, the door swung open and she saw Brooke's eager face.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡYGPIPJd7l2
"Well? What happened? Details, December!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡPk4KVS57BA
"My God, Brooke! Let her come inside first before you start the Spanish Inquisition on her." Immediately, Brooke was pulled inside by Raven who gave her an apologetic but grinning look. "Hey, D."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡDuEGuDCEnp
December's surprise face gave way to mirror the grin on Raven's face. With everything that happened tonight, the feelings on being high on her emotion made it impossible not to. It was infectious.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡym5n4V7h2s
She walked in and saw Raven, Brooke, and Serena all sitting on the beds looking expectant. And of course, beaming.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡkRNoCJhHQS
They were all quiet, too quiet until she realized they were struggling to keep the questions in, and she said what they have been wanting to know all night, "It was wonderful." She breathe a dreamy sigh.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡitnXaRAMwY
All three of them squealed in excitement, and when December's eyes went wide and she gestured for them to tone it down, they giggled quietly when they remembered the warden patrolling at this time. Brooke and Raven hugged each other and Serena laughed at them before she reached towards December, pulling her closer to them.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡc4kispdAGf
"You have no idea how long these two crazies stood by the window, waiting to catch a glimpse of you and Zach." Serena chuckled. "They're waiting for the moment."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ317RqJAHrq
Raven poked Serena's arm. "Correction. We're waiting for it, because don't you act like you haven't been doing the same ever since you got back."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKUXH4OhRl
Serena's face broke out into a sheepish grin.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡf3qAlSZytG
December was high on their expressions and feelings too, but she found herself a little lost at what Raven said. "Wait, the moment?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡOwHVn7FYO6
All three of her friends looked at her strangely before they said in hushed unison, "The kiss!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡpoQjlxoaOf
Then, they all promptly burst into giggles and suppressed squealing. December immediately blushed and made an 'oh' sound, because of course she had to be person who wouldn't be able to catch on what 'the moment' means.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡv4iVEDODch
She can't believe she was so dense sometimes – but could anyone blame her? Her senses were fogged as she still weren't over one of the best – if not the best – night of her life.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡj0O1Wb8BaX
Looking at her giggling friends, she laughed at the state they were in. If anyone could see them right now, they would think they were highly drunk. It certainly weren't the everyday scenes people see of them.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzlySH5gSU
December jumped on them in a group hug before finding some way to settle in between her friends on her single bed.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡwoZOjDs8hE
She sighed dreamily. "Guys, it was everything I have dreamt of and more. I just…I don't know where to begin and how to explain what I feel! I've never…felt like this before."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡqBFeCCqLdA
Serena sighed quietly and smiled. "I'm happy for you. Zach seems like a good person."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡIV94t2MzjE
"He is." December nodded and smiled.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡuP2tEm76vp
Brooke adjusted her position, but finding that she was on the edge, got up and sat on Raven's bed.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡLV0raD3Aog
"Well, I think we really need to know what went on. Everything, D." Brooke gushed.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡb6claFnWfG
And she did for the next hour.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡBKwEda0lhw
"Wait, so you're saying you guys didn't exactly get to kiss? Oh, this is atrocious!" Brooke exclaimed. She may be theatrical but they all nodded in agreement at that.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡL3rMvBpycN
"It was kinda dark outside but I thought I saw your shadowy figures at a close distance. So, he didn't, huh. I would have thought Zach would go in for that." Raven said slowly.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡPnU1I5H62X
Serena made a thoughtful sound. "Maybe but he just doesn't strike me as the sort to do that. Do you think he would kiss on first date?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡNDHjhVuigM
December turned to her. "Did Weston gave you one on your first date?"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡO2PgOkSdT4
Serena's flushed and shy expression was enough answer for her.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1JsWKb1sh4
"Maybe he's shy?" Raven said.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡp5H7oZ2Tij
"Or maybe he's a shy gentleman." December added. "It doesn't matter. I think we're still in the first phase. He did kissed me on the cheek, though and I think that's more than enough, really."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡF7lvo9PgnJ
Her tone took on a shy one, and on cue, her cheeks heated. She could still feel the ghost of his warm lips on her cheek and the tingle she felt made her curl her toes. If she doesn't bring down her blushing tendencies, December might just have a fever soon.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡlpsNldZnGg
Brooke rolled her eyes but smiled at her. "You're too cute, sometimes."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡr5l9cK9fEr
Raven and Serena giggled and said in unison, "Which is what he had said too."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡyjzTOX3Edq
"Ah!" December let out a small scream and got up. "Okay, I'm gonna go and shower. All these talk is making me remember of how sticky I feel." She was still smiling widely as she looked at her friends' crestfallen and sulky faces. But then, Brooke's face brightened up.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡozQQmb3lzJ
"You complain about that now, but one day you won't mind being sticky if it's from him."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡC0PYa2Jjin
They gasped and Raven cringed. "Brooke, that's gross!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡKQGkKvhNav
Brooke snickered behind her hand. "Serena knows what I'm talking about."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡey45oqgsMQ
A gasp and a slap on the arm later, Serena said in astonished embarrassment, "Don't you bring me into this!"copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpQ2n056jn
Eyes wide and thoroughly embarrassed, she yelled in a hushed voice, "You're all out of control!" before reaching for her toiletries. Face flushed, December shook her head at her weird friends who laughed harder at her expression and hastened her steps towards the bathroom.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡt4eaoYFGMP
It turns out that following the address Katya had given him wasn't a problem at all, as he had feared. Although it had been a few months since he'd come to San Francisco, he was getting better at going around places.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡb1nf6MGmfs
But the residence she'd directed him had been at least an hour away from where he was at the party and reaching it was no easy task. He had never taken the time to appreciate what he had for a transport – the public transportation and his beloved motorbike; especially the motorbike – until he had to find some means of it.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡdsS3uf4Alo
Why was it so hard to get a cab around here anyway?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡXPtcZSaFyW
Pierre sighed inwardly. He really missed the motorcycle, and vowed to find a way to get it back from his father.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡuJXSZ3FFqU
As he stood in front of a row of four-story glass apartment, Pierre let himself be a little awe at the quiet yet mysterious beauty of the place. He wouldn't be surprise if someone owned the entire building and live in it; it looked like it belonged to a sole person – the entire place screamed such.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Dm0HRgMsB
Then he wondered who exactly lived in a place as recluse yet quite grand as this. Katya? But how did she even manage to find this place?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡbqrFCqxM55
The longer he stood on the pavement facing the apartment, the more hesitant he was. What was he doing in this place? What does he even want?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡJAPHtOL8uc
He thought back to the text he received and frowned. He wanted to tear his hair out in frustration.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3DPpDxhTkJ
Why now?copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡvwaXbMnIyt
His mum. The woman who birthed and cared for him, yet she was also a stranger. Pierre was warring with his thoughts and feelings; of the past and the present. He wondered whether his future would change if he meet with whoever that was waiting for him inside.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡOi4EZxtLFX
As he took a step, a feminine voice stopped him.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡXIAN8ekq8F
"I didn't think you'd come."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEbkBm6Z5F
He turned around and saw Katya, a soft and relieved expression on her face. He found himself frowning and a scowl plastered on his face.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡtTYxxX50JL
"I hadn't wanted to."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡYGuytDNO3W
"Yet curiosity got the best of you, huh?" She chuckled softly.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡteAFyb1Fa6
"Let's just get to the point." Pierre snapped. Every second ticking by with the person from his past made his nerves jittery and he just wanted to get this over with.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡlE0jbxhgy0
Katya's soft expression gave way to a humourless smile. "Always the impatient one."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wGv598SYc
His face gave no indication of what he thought of that and Katya became exasperated before she schooled hers into indifference.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡOsqp7ZA9FL
"Very well. Follow me."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡg0pgkBOBSm
He walked up the steps to the building and as he took in the surroundings; a decent yet pretty landscape, an extravagant patio of dark furniture with wooden floorboards, glass balustrades and lights embedded on the floorboards and ceiling. He thought it was somewhat a nice place to live in. He imagined it's something a bachelor would choose.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡBUSiqYszQq
Hell, he imagined himself living here.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡLFSc5ZcG9S
And that thought made him scowl – he wasn't here to appraise living standards, he just needed to know something, and possibly get out of there as soon as possible.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡrpSRGdtuOl
The self-satisfied smile Katya gave him didn't escape his attention. It seemed as though she knew what he was thinking and he opted a look of nonchalance.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡRqfJIFHaey
She pressed some buttons on a device, then swiped it with a card and stepped inside. As he followed suit, he didn't notice the equally dark refurbished place with a quiet masculine aura to it, its look a minimalistic approach with a touch of colour here and there that he would undoubtedly appreciate, as they fit some of his preferences if he were to own one someday.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡB0etdjtpZC
But this wasn't a showcase building and he wasn't there to appraise anything.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡhr2ajInMcc
Which might as well be because the first thing he saw when he walked into the brightly lit space was the other two people; one whom he wanted to see less of, and another he had never thought would see again.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ83CnNl3vvi
A deep, slightly accented male voice spoke, his voice while pleasant, rang loud and clear in the quiet presence of other occupants.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ47ijAvD4VD
"Hello, Pierre."copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡGd4IoorMbE
Pierre knew then that there was no going back now, but strangely he didn't feel uncomfortable facing his past.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡYjIBHvWK1s
No, he couldn't feel anything at all.copyright protection107ＰＥＮＡＮＡ36zlpaR3eN
ns18.210.24.208da2
